Procedure D: Install Rear Suspension Member Assembly

1. Place the rear suspension member assembly on the transmission jack.

NOTE:
You can insert a screwdriver through the front suspension member hole to help align the transmission jack adapter with the suspension member.





2. Clean and "prep" the four suspension member mounting studs (welded to the vehicle body) as follows (see Figure D1).

Clean

a. Use a wire brush to remove all dirt, debris, etc. Then blow off with clean shop air.

b. Spray Genuine Nissan Brake Cleaner P/N 999MP-AH001P (or equivalent) onto the stud, and then wipe off with a clean, dry, lint-free rag.

"Prep"

c. Spray automotive aerosol degreaser onto the stud.

d. Blow off with clean, dry shop air.

NOTE:
The stud threads must be clean and dry.





3. Clean and "prep" the four nuts that screw onto the suspension member mounting studs as follows (see Figure D2).

Clean

a. Use a wire brush to remove all dirt, debris, etc from the nut threads. Then blow off with clean shop air.

b. Spray Genuine Nissan Brake Cleaner P/N 999MP-AH001P (or equivalent) on the nut threads, and then wipe off with a clean, dry, lint-free rag.

"Prep"

c. Spray automotive aerosol degreaser on the nut threads.

d. Blow off with clean, dry shop air.

NOTE:
The nut threads must be clean and dry.

CAUTION:
When tightening the rear suspension member mounting nuts in the next step, DO NOT EXCEED 100 N-m (10.3 Kg-m, 74 ft-lb).

4. Install the suspension member/suspension member components in the reverse order of removal, making sure of the following:

For all 2002 Altimas and 2003 Altimas built up to 1/24/03 ONLY: Install new LH and RH stay brackets. See Parts Information. The original rubber washers are not used on the new stay brackets.





^ Re-torque all fasteners to specification (see Figure D3).

CAUTION:
When tightening the rear suspension member mounting nuts, DO NOT EXCEED 100 N-m (10.3 Kg-m, 74 ft-lb).

^ Use a "backup" wrench when tightening fasteners that use a nut and a bolt.

^ Re-connect the ABS wire harnesses (if equipped) making sure they are "snapped" in place.

^ Use a new gasket between the catalytic converter and center exhaust tube.

^ Connect and adjust the parking brake cables.

^ When re-installing the rear rotors to the hubs, make sure the mating surfaces are clean. If necessary, use a wire brush to remove any rust or debris.This will help prevent rotor run-out / brake judder. Also, make sure you correctly "index" the rotor to the hub.

5. Perform a rear wheel alignment.